Book description
"A fascinating, provocative case that the metaverse will not merely transform our virtual experience--it may actually enrich the quality of our lives" (Adam Grant)--from the visionary co-founder of one of today's most innovative technology companies "This important book offers a highly persuasive argument that the metaverse, a new kind of virtual world, marks a profound next stage in this long human quest for fulfillment through creation."--Chris Anderson, head of TED The concept of "the metaverse" has exploded in the public consciousness, but its contours remain elusive. Is it merely an immersive virtual reality playground, one that Facebook and other platforms will angle to control? Is it simply the next generation of massive multiplayer online games? Or is it something more revolutionary? As pioneering technologist Herman Narula shows, the metaverse is the latest manifestation of an ancient human tendency: the act of worldbuilding. From the Egyptians, whose conception of death inspired them to build the pyramids, to modern-day sports fans, whose passion for a game inspires extreme behavior, humans have long sought to supplement their day-to-day lives with a rich diversity of alternative experiences. Rooting his vision in history and psychology, Narula argues that humans' intrinsic need for autonomy, accomplishment, and connection can best be met in virtual "worlds of ideas," where users have the chance to create and exchange meaning and value. The metaverse is both the growing set of fulfilling digital experiences--ranging from advanced gaming to concerts and other entertainment events and even to virtual employment--and the empowering framework that allows these spaces to become "networks of useful meaning." Bloomberg Intelligence recently predicted that the metaverse will become an $800 billon industry by 2024. But its implications, argues Narula, will lead to far more awe-inspiring possibilities than a spigot of cash. The arrival of the metaverse marks the beginning of a new age of exploration--not outward, but inward--with the potential to reshape society and open the door to a new understanding of the human species and its capabilities. Rigorously researched and passionately argued, Virtual Society is a provocative and essential guide for anyone who wants to go beyond superficial headlines to understand the true contours and potential of our virtual future.
Friday Fox
Unlocking a world of literary wonders β this app's extensive format support and user-centric approach have rekindled my love for books. π±π ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Bad Badminton
I love how ListenBook extracts artwork and metadata from audio files, adding a visual touch to my listening experience. ListenBook's support for chapters and bookmarks ensures that I never lose my place in a story. I'm amazed by ListenBook's smooth drag-and-drop downloads in my web browser β a time-saver! Kudos to the developers for crafting an app that understands readers' needs. The smooth playback and sleek design are pure perfection. ππ Navigating through chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's easy to jump to specific sections.
Lava Nibbler
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook is a fun feature that adds a unique touch to my audiobook experience. The statistics feature is a fantastic addition β knowing how much time I spend on audiobooks is eye-opening, and ListenBook makes tracking it a breeze. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. The intuitive chapter navigation and quick access to controls make my audiobook experience seamless. ListenBook has streamlined my audiobook experience. It's a must-have app for enthusiasts.
Rook
I've become the storyteller of my family, sharing the amazing audiobooks I've discovered. With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with maximum comfort and convenience. π§ This app is my saving grace! Now I can enjoy my beloved books while cooking up a storm! ππ³ My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thanks to automatic artwork and metadata. This audiobook kept me company during a long road trip and made the miles disappear! The narrator's engaging performance and the crisp production quality made for an immersive experience. I appreciated how well they balanced drama with clarity - never sacrificing understanding for effect.
Stacker of Wheat
With ListenBook Pro, I can customize the tone of the sound to match my preferences β it's a fantastic touch. πββοΈπ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. π±π Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it! I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Moon Orchid
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! I'm hooked on this app β it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
NoiseFire
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature for those who enjoy organized and structured listening.
Metal Lady
Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app. π§ββοΈβ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! π΅π Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is a true marvel. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature for those who enjoy organized and structured listening. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Evil Smith
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
ThoughtTrailblazer
I'm hooked on this app β it's like Netflix for book lovers! This app is my travel companion β making long journeys enjoyable and insightful. Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use. ListenBookβs CarPlay support makes listening in the car a seamless experience.
PixelPioneer
Audiobooks on this app have turned my travels into explorations of new narratives. A wonderful performance! The narrator captured the mood of the book perfectly, making it easy to visualize each scene. The audio quality was crisp, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish.
Scarlet Mary
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. With this app, I've discovered a whole new way to enjoy literature. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. ListenBook has all the features I need. My go-to audiobook app! The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Lilac Lizard
I love how ListenBook extracts artwork and metadata from audio files, adding a visual touch to my listening experience. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful β I'm hooked!
Spooky Yellowjacket
πΆββοΈπ§ Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks β pure bliss! ποΈπ No more hassle with formats β this app ensures my audiobook adventures are smooth, and my favorite tales are just a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. Finally, an app that supports a wide range of audio formats! It's a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The ability to download audio directly within the app is a lifesaver. ListenBook is incredibly convenient.
Lucifurious
This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go β it's like carrying a library in my pocket. Automated extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
Jelly Camber
The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers β it's my go-to source for literary adventures!
NexusNavigator
Easy sharing with friends via AirDrop. Very convenient. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Murmur
This app's library is a treasure trove β I'm always discovering new favorites. This app has become my go-to companion, making my daily routine more exciting and insightful. Looping playback helps me retain knowledge from audiobooks effectively. It's an invaluable tool.
Fire Feline
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. I'm blown away by ListenBook's ability to maintain audio quality even for formats like FLAC and AWB. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library β this app's design is commendable. Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are simply amazing.
Bruh
I can't believe how much time I've gained by listening while cooking and doing chores. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience